Baseball gloves are the “independence” of baseball fielders. Infielders are something special in many cases. So, it is expected that the infielders will look for the best infield gloves for the best performance.
For optimum performance, you need to have gloves that are both excellent and provide good value for the money. This applies to both amateurs and professionals.
If you are seeking the greatest gloves and asking, “What are the best infield gloves in 2023?” then you have come to the right place. I will gladly be of assistance to you.
Today, I will be discussing and making a list of the 10 best infield gloves that will be your best partner on the baseball field.
Note: 59% of the MLB players use Rawlings gloves, and 27% of MLB players use Wilson baseball gloves.
Types of Infield Gloves
As the name suggests infield gloves are made for infielders such as first baseman, second baseman, third baseman, and shortstop positions. The types of infield baseball gloves can change according to the position.
First of all, there are first base gloves and mitts.
Then, there’s the classic shortstop or second base glove. This type of glove typically has a shallow pocket and a smaller size than other gloves – perfect for quick transfers and snappy throws to first base.
Then there’s the third baseman’s mitt which is slightly larger than shortstop or second base gloves but still has a shallow pocket for those fast turn-around plays. The webbing on these gloves usually features an H-shaped style that helps secure balls caught in flight.
Related: 7 Best First Base Gloves for Serious Players
Features of Infield Gloves
- Size and shape tailored for specific positions – first baseman, second baseman, shortstop, third baseman.
- Smaller in size compared to outfield gloves (11 to 12.5 inches for adults).
- Reinforced webbing to offer stability and support when catching a ball.
- They feature open-web designs such as I-Web, H-Web, Modified Trap, or Basket Web.
- Thick padding for shock absorption in high-impact areas such as the palm and fingers.
- Shallow pockets for quick retrieval and rapid transfers.
- Closed-back design with snug finger-stalls to help keep the glove from shifting on the hand.
- An open-back design offers more flexibility and range of motion for certain positions such as second base or shortstop who need to make quick transfers or throws to first base.
- They have less padding overall compared to other positions gloves.
- The break-in period required either natural use or specialized techniques to mold the glove to the individual’s hand and preferences.
Related: Top 3 Best Shortstop Gloves
10 Best Infield Gloves
Now, let’s talk about the best infield gloves. Here we are going to make a list of gloves combining the best infield gloves for youth, the best youth baseball gloves for 10-year old, the best baseball glove for small hands, and so on.
So, let’s see what is waiting for us the best baseball glove brands are providing this year
| Glove | My Verdict |
| Rawlings Pro Preferred Infield Glove 11.5” | Most Premium |
| Wilson A2K Infield Baseball Glove | The Second Best |
| Rawlings Heart of The Hide R2G Infield Glove | Contour Fit |
| Wilson A2000 Infield Baseball Glove | Best for youth |
| Nokona W-1200C Handcrafted Walnut Infield Baseball Glove | Made by USA Workers |
| Mizuno GMP2BK-600D Pro Infield Baseball Gloves | Premium with Cost Effectiveness |
| Wilson 2022 A1000 Baseball Glove | Budget Friendly |
| Rawlings Encore Infield Baseball Glove | Budget Friendly |
| Rawlings | R9 Baseball Glove Series | Bult for Youth |
| Rawlings Select PRO-LITE Infield Glove | Best With Low Budget |
1. Rawlings Pro Preferred Infield Glove 11.5” (Most Premium)
Features
| Material | Blend (Kip, Pittards Sheepskin) |
| Hand Orientation | Right-Hand Throw |
| Web | Pro I web |
| Age | High school to adult |
| Padding | Wool |
| Pattern | 2000 |
| Size | 11.5” |
Overview
The Rawlings Pro Preferred series is probably the best baseball glove series in history. Pro Preferred infield glove is designed for infielders. The shallower pocket and the Pro I web are highly efficient in transferring the ball quickly from the catching hand to the throwing hand.
The blend materials are used in the Pro Preferred series. The glove is made of ultra-premium Kip leather from young cows. The leather feels softer but highly durable.
Pittard sheepskin is used for the lining. On the other hand, the wool padding keeps your hand drying for a long time while you are wearing the glove on the baseball field.
The glove is designed with the web as well as 200 patterns. The highly premium leather, lining, and padding will help you master the infield and easily catch the toughest balls.
By the way, the glove is 30% factory broken and 70% player break-in. You must go through a precise break-in process to make the glove game-ready.
However, like the quality and class of the glove, the price is also in the expensive premium category. So, this glove is not preferred for young players but for professional ones.
The Pro Preferred Mocha Infield is from the series of Mocha. There are many versions of the position in this series. You may check out the entire series in our guide, “Rawlings Pro Preferred Mocha Review | A Review Of Quality Glove Series.”
Pros
- Top-class leather kip leather gives an unmatched feel and durability.
- 100 wool padding keeps the pocket formation and shape.
- Pittard SheepSkin lining keeps hands sweat-free and comfortable.
- The glove is preferable for high school players to pro-level.
Cons
- Highly-priced.
- Gets dirt easily.
2. Wilson A2K Infield Baseball Glove (The Second Best)
Features
| Material | Pro Stock Select Leather/SuperSkin |
| Hand Orientation | Right-Hand Throw |
| Web | H, I web |
| Age | High school to adult |
| Padding | Double Palm construction |
| Wrist Lining | DriLex |
| Binding | Flat Finger binding |
| Pattern | 1786 |
| Size | 11.5” |
Overview
The Rawlings Pro Preferred infield and the Wilson A2K infield use the same numbering system, making it impossible to discriminate between them. Choosing one of them as more advantageous than the others will be difficult because the A2K category of Wilson baseball gloves is their most luxurious offering.
The A2K is handcrafted out of the highest quality leather available. Triple-sorting is used to choose the leather for the Pro Stock Select product. Only the top 5 percent of the finest Japanese cowhides are chosen for the A2K series. This ensures the highest quality possible.
Microfibers named SuperSkin are responsible for practically halving the overall weight of the glove. However, what do you believe to be the most important fact? The SuperSkin substance gives the gloves twice the normal amount of durability.
The double palm construction enhances the stability of the pocket of the infield glove. A piece of shell is placid between the outer liner and outer shell, reducing the wrinkles in the palm. As a result, the shape lasts long despite taking a lot of ball hits.
The rolled dual welting is another great feature to keep the glove’s shape on over time. Aside from this, the flat finger binding enhances the connection between the outer fingers (players who love to keep their fingers out throughout the back) and the back of the glove. It produces less pain during the game.
However, the glove is a premium series glove with a high price. So, this is one of the Wilson baseball gloves which is not preferred for the youths.
Pros
- Pro Stock Select leather is one of the top classes. It gives the highest level of performance, stability, and durability.
- The SuperSkin technology decreases the weight and increases the durability double.
- The double palm construction reduces the wrinkle in the palm.
Cons
- A little pricy.
- Not perfect for amateurs, but rather for professionals.
3. Rawlings Heart of The Hide R2G Infield Glove (Contour Fit)
Features
| Material | Steer Hides |
| Hand Orientation | Right-Hand Throw |
| Web | Single post, I web |
| Age | Youth to adult/Professional |
| Padding | Redesigned heel pad for easier closing |
| Fit | Standard |
| Lining | Leather |
| Size | 11.25” |
Overview
Are you looking for the best infield gloves for the youth? Or, more specifically, the best youth baseball glove for a 10-year-old?
The heart of the hide baseball glove series is the legendary series of Rawlings Sports Goods Company. High-quality and premium steer hide is used to make the “heart of the hide” series, which its name shows.
The hide that comes with gloves is from cows that have aged more than two years. 5% of the leather of the hide is taken from the neck of the cow. The leather is comparatively thicker and stiffer than the Pro Preferred series pro Kip leather.
There are different colors available. In this section, there is no bound.
The numerous types of webbing will lead you to the infield heart of the hide. The contour kid fit Pro I web is designed to accommodate younger players‘ narrower and more diminutive hands. Consequently, it is possible to consider it the best baseball glove for small hands.
Because of the improved contact, the reduced finger stalls provide a greater degree of control over the glove. As a contour-fit glove, it includes an adjustable wrist lace. Adjusting the wrist pull lace may get a fit that is exactly right for the glove.
The manufacturer has broken the glove into a degree of 65 percent. Consequently, the player who uses it will be considered broken in for the remaining 35 percent.
The perfect-fit right-hand throw glove features a fast and controlled transfer of the ball to the other hand due to its I-webbing and perfect pocket.
The steer hide leather is highly durable and stiffer. This will keep you at least 3 to 5 years away from taking another new glove.
Pros
- One of the top-quality leathers.
- Durable enough with hardness.
- The graphic is cool.
- Multiple webbing options.
Cons
- A little bit pricey.
- Need a break in time as the players breaking in is 70%.
4. Wilson A2000 Infield Baseball Glove (Best for Youth)
Features
| Material | Pro Stock Leather/SuperSkin |
| Hand Orientation | Right-Hand Throw |
| Web | 3/4 X2 |
| Age | Youth |
| Padding | Double Palm construction |
| Wrist Lining | DriLex |
| Binding | Flat Finger binding |
| Pattern | PFX2 |
| Finish | Comfort Pro Fit |
| Pad | Thin Heel Pad |
| Size | 11” |
Overview
The wrist opening on the 2022 A2000® PFX2SS is more compact since it was built with Pedroia Fit. The finger stalls on the glove are made shorter so that they may provide a secure fit for younger players and infielders with smaller hands.
Because of its shorter length, this 11″ pattern enables high-speed transfers and provides optimum control over the Black Pro Stock leather. The use of red and blue accents is intended to attract attention.
Black SuperSkin, on the other hand, lowers the glove’s overall weight while increasing its longevity.
The pro stock leather is crafted from Japanese hide with the greatest level of tanning and undergoes further processing.
The lining is constructed with the revamped version of the ProLux leather. This has a more luxurious and gentler feel about it. As a direct consequence of this, the fit is quite comfortable.
The infield gloves manufactured by Wilson Baseball Goods Manufacturer have an aesthetic technique known as rolling dual welting.
This effect is responsible for maintaining the form of the glove. On the other hand, the flat finger binding exposes the palm of the hand and the fingers of the player, which is ideal for those players who like playing but want to retain their fingers outside of the glove.
As a consequence of this, experiencing less discomfort while playing the game and catching the balls is the outcome. Your hand will remain dry thanks to the DriLex wrist lining’s ability to absorb any perspiration that may accumulate there. Last but not least, the glove has a tiny heel pad that makes it easier to break it in quickly.
This is one of the best infield gloves for youths with such premium features, durability, and performance.
We have mentioned both premium gloves of Wilson A2K and A2000. Do you know what the differences are between them? If you have interest, we have a comparison guide between Wilson a2K vs A2000.
Pros
- High-quality pro stock leather.
- Comfortable fit.
- Soft and sweat-absorbing wrist lining.
- SuperSkin material makes it highly durable and lighter in weight.
- Rolled dual welting holds the shape over time.
- Faster breaking in.
Cons
- The lace quality is not top-notch.
- Thin padding is sometimes not comfortable for many players.
Looking for Youth Infield Gloves? Here is a detailed list of the 10 Best Youth Infield Gloves
5. Nokona W-1200C Handcrafted Walnut Infield Baseball Glove
Features
| Material | Walnut Crunch top Grade Full Grain Steerhide |
| Hand Orientation | Right-Hand Throw |
| Web | Closed Web |
| Age | Adult |
| Construction | Handcrafted with pride in the USA |
| Wrist Lining | Leather |
| Size | 12” |
Overview
Nokona baseball gloves have been made since 1934 with class and excellence. They are proudly making their gloves in the USA. Almost all baseball gloves are hand-crafted. The highest qualified craftsmen are working in making the Nokona baseball gloves.
Walnut crunch full-grain leather is used in the construction of the Nokona W-1200C, which is an infield glove created by the Nokona. The Walnut Crunch leather is a distinctive leather made by Nokona that bears the company’s trademark.
The design and construction of the glove include both Nokona’s traditional aesthetic and more contemporary design engineering principles.
The glove, while being made of full-grain leather, has a game-ready feel to it and is nearly completely broken in at the manufacturer. In addition to this, the Nokona W-1200C offers exceptional levels of durability, stability, and performance.
The glove has an adult fit and measures 12 inches across the infield. Because of the closed web, moving the ball quickly from one hand to the next is made easier.
The fact that Nokona Gloves care about its goods is another of the brand’s many strengths. Because of this, they will provide you with a complete warranty for a period of one year.
The warranty covers any defects in their level of workmanship. However, Nokona is not responsible for improper usage, regular wear, or slashing damage.
Pros
- High-quality Walnut Crunch signature leather.
- Great performance, durability, and stability.
- Game-ready feel.
- Closed web design gives fast transfer.
Cons
- The price is higher, as is the top-class glove.
6. Mizuno GMP2BK-600D Pro Infield Baseball Gloves (Premium with Cost Effectiveness)
Features
| Material | US Kip Leather |
| Hand Orientation | Right-Hand Throw |
| Player needs | |
| Age | Adult |
| Construction | Handcrafted |
| Palm Lining | Shell Leather |
| Size | 11.75” |
Overview
Mizuno is recognized as one of the most prominent market leaders in baseball-related sports products. As a direct consequence of this, you will come across some interesting products from them.
There are a few of them, and one is the Mizuno GMP2BK-600D Pro Infield Baseball Gloves. The Mizuno GMP2BK-600D Pro Infield Baseball Glove, like the Wilson A2K, is constructed with the best US KIP leather.
You are probably aware that kip leather outlasts other types of leather the best. Therefore, you won’t have any problems with the glove’s longevity, stability, or quality.
The Mizuno GMP2BK was designed and crafted by the company’s most skilled artisan, who was familiar with all aspects of the process, including eat, sleet, and construction. The master craftsman is responsible for ensuring the greatest degree of artistic quality to seek the ideal pattern.
Kip leather, which is tanned in Japan, provides the greatest degree of toughness whilst having a supple feel to the touch. On the other hand, the palm lining is made of shell leather, which maintains its resilience over time and provides a sensation that is identical to that of a brand-new glove.
The fact that this Mizuno glove’s pockets are made according to the players’ preferences is maybe the glove’s most important aspect. Therefore, in the end, the pockets bring the correct form to the glove so that it may be used effectively for the infield position.
Pros
- The highest quality kip leather is the most durable one in baseball leather making. So, this will ensure the longest lifespan.
- The player preference-based pocket helps to perfectly master the infield.
- The shell leather palm lining keeps the shape as it is and gives a consistent feel for the new glove.
- The premium-grade materials are durable, stable, and high performing.
Cons
- I haven’t found any noticeable cons to this glove.
7. Wilson 2022 A1000 Baseball Glove (Budget Friendly)
Features
| Material | Full Grain Leather |
| Hand Orientation | Right-Hand Throw |
| Web | H-Web |
| Age | Youth |
| Construction | Handcrafted |
| Wrist Lining | DriLex Wrist Lining |
| Size | 11.5” |
Overview
Do you want your children to run the infield, or do you want to do it yourself? You may be able to discover one that fits your small children’s needs and your budget well.
The Wilson A1000 is a baseball glove that is constructed out of full-grain leather. It features a tight fit and shorter stalls than other gloves. As a consequence of this, it guarantees a secure fit even for somewhat smaller hands.
The glove is rather lightweight for its category. The rolling dual welting is employed as an aesthetic effect in the A1000, which is fantastic since it is also used in other luxury gloves. Because it is built into the liner of Wilson’s infield, outfield, and pitcher’s gloves, it maintains its form over time and provides more consistency.
The glove will remain in a durable condition provided it is constructed out of Black Blonde full grain leather, the usual grade of leather.
When you catch even the quickest struck balls, the glove’s plush cushioning will ensure your safety and make the experience as comfortable as possible.
The ball can travel at speeds of up to 800 kilometers per hour without damaging the glove, but the young players’ arms cannot produce speeds of this magnitude. As a consequence of this, it is enough to fulfill its function for the younger generation.
Along with these, the pocket is large enough as well as shallower. That means the pocket is neither bigger nor shallower, just sized perfectly. So, catching and transferring a ball is easy enough with this glove and less painful.
Pros
- Great durability.
- Full grain leather is great in stability, comfort, and long-lasting.
- The glove is budget-friendly.
- Lighter in weight.
- Pedroiatic fit for smaller hands.
Cons
- The con is the glove needs comparatively more break-in time as it uses full-grain leather.
8. Rawlings Encore Infield Baseball Glove (Budget Friendly)
Features
| Material | Leather |
| Hand Orientation | Right-Hand Throw |
| Web | I web |
| Age | Youth |
| Padding | Comfortable |
| Fit | Standard |
| Lining | Leather |
| Size | 11.5” |
Overview
Rawlings makes some of the most exquisite products in the world of gloves. Rawlings consistently ranks among the best baseball glove brands, regardless of the price range being considered.
The Rawlings Encore infield is a bat made specifically for younger kids playing the infield position. Leather of standard quality was utilized in the glove construction. The 11.5″ glove has an I-web and is excellent for catching the ball and making quick transfers. It measures a circumference of.
By the way, the Rawlings Encore infield is geared for younger players between the ages of 8 and 14. Therefore, a professional would not use a glove of this quality.
The expanded web base provides additional protection for the hand and creates a deep pocket that may be used to hold the ball. The rather deep pocket was built specifically for younger players so that they would not have to worry about losing their ball.
The reason for this is that youngsters are required to have excellent catching skills before they may throw the ball.
It is guaranteed that the hand opening may be adjusted to suit the glove exactly while maintaining a tight fit. The glove has been broken in at the manufacturer to the extent of sixty-five percent, which is a wonderful feature. The remaining thirty-five percent is up to the young people to complete independently.
When everything is considered, this glove is among the greatest baseball gloves available, ranking well in terms of price, ease of breaking in, and overall performance.
Pros
- Cost-effective.
- Durable enough.
- Good fit for youth.
- Almost broken in.
- Adjustable hand opening.
- Comparatively deeper pocket for an easy catch for youths.
Pros
- Not that premium due to being designed for youths.
- The leather is not of top-notch quality.
9. Rawlings | R9 Baseball Glove Series | Multiple Styles (Bult for Youth)
Features
| Material | Leather |
| Hand Orientation | Right-Hand Throw |
| Web | I web |
| Age | Youth |
| Padding | Comfortable |
| Fit | Standard |
| Lining | Leather |
| Size | 11.5” |
Overview
Rawlings R9 is here if you are looking for anything that is the greatest baseball glove for youngsters in addition to being virtual of professional-grade quality. A baseball infield glove that is well manufactured and is composed entirely of leather.
The fact that the outside is made entirely of leather and is both soft and sturdy contributes to the product’s high-end build quality. In addition to that, the glove has an incredible level of comfort.
The Rawlings R9 is designed to provide the players who use it with the maximum possible level of comfort. When fielding, the glove is held sufficiently tight thanks to its strategically snug fit.
The cushioned finger back liners and young pro taper that has been included in the design of the glove guarantee that the wearer will have the highest possible level of comfort.
The leather-made R9 has received 80 percent of its manufacturing break-in, making it almost ready for gameplay. As a direct consequence of this, the bare minimum of break-in time is necessary.
Pros
- Greta fit.
- All-leather made.
- Durable and high performing.
- Considered premium level for youth.
- Easy break-in.
Cons
- Not found based on its price and making.
10. Rawlings Select PRO-LITE Infield Glove (Best With Low Budget)
Features
| Material | Leather |
| Hand Orientation | Right-Hand Throw |
| Web | I web |
| Age | Youth |
| Padding | Comfortable |
| Fit | Standard |
| Lining | Leather |
| Size | 11.25” |
Overview
No worries if you are searching for the cheapest glove under $100 for amateur use; I have the best choice here. Rawlings Select Pro Lite is the best glove under $100 on today’s list.
But what is the amazing thing you know? Its construction.
Hence, it’s an all-leather constructed glove at such a price. One of the best facts is its color. The Corey Seager Model color is such an incredible one in appearance.
The lightweight but soft leather ensures the fast breaking-in of the glove. The pro-style feature enhances its good looking. The all-leather lacing helps to keep the shape on and pocket.
Rawlings Sports Goods also added an extra cushion to the glove that added unmatched comfort when wearing the glove.
Summing up everything, the glove is the best one on the list considering its price and performance. By the way, the glove is for youths.
What to Look for While Purchasing the Best Infield Gloves?
- Consider the glove’s size and shape carefully. Selecting a glove that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing is crucial.
- Think about the gloves you’re going to be using. Leather and synthetic materials are the two most common choices for gloves, and both have their benefits and drawbacks. Leather gloves are the gold standard in terms of durability, but they can be quite pricey. Synthetic gloves may not last as long, but they are far cheaper.
- Think about the glove’s webbed construction. To effectively catch and field balls, infielders require gloves with sturdy webbing.
- Pick a glove with plenty of padding for maximum protection. Quick stops and starts put a lot of strain on the hands of infielders. Protect your hands from damage by investing in gloves with thick cushioning.
- Consider the lacing of the glove. The laces of infield gloves are usually reinforced so that they can withstand the impact of harder-struck balls.
Building Materials of Infield Gloves
For durability, comfort, and performance, the key factor of the glove is the material used. Mainly, three types of materials are used in baseball gloves.
- To start, there is a man-made substance. There is no break-in time required with synthetic leather since it is an artificial kind of leather. So, right out of the box, you can start playing games with this. Gloves made of synthetic leather are the ones recommended for players of a younger age.
- To be more specific and more performance-holic, softened and oil-treated leather is used for gloves. The oil-treated leather is almost in break-in condition that is easily broken in. This is preferred for senior players who start to participate in leagues.
- Pro series leather is the highest quality material utilized in baseball gloves. The pro series STEERHIDE is quite costly, well-made, and very durable. Premium leather is also very soft and durable but stiff when first purchased. After breaking them in, you will experience the most comfortable feeling and a longer lifetime.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best outfield gloves on the market?
Here is a list of the best outfield gloves for your convention.
- Wilson A2000 Outfield glove.
- Rawlings Pro Preferred Mocha outfield gloves.
- Louisville Slugger Xeno fastpitch.
- Mizuno MVP Prime.
- Miken Pro series, etc.
If you’re thinking about Wilson’s gloves, you might check out our guide on Top 3 Wilson Outfield Gloves | MLB Players’ Choice
What gloves do MLB infielders use?
Rawlings baseball gloves and Wilson baseball gloves are the most used baseball gloves by MLB players. Among them, 59% use Rawlings, and 27% of total gloves are Wilson’s.
By the way, MLB’s most popular and used baseball glove webbing is I-web. 67% of infielders use the I-web.
What makes a good infield glove?
The materials of the glove are the most important thing. Like premium quality leather will provide extensive good service. Also, the making is the glove is another crucial fact.
Bottom Line
What are the best infield gloves that need several things to be cooped up? Great leather quality, design factors, glove size, orientation, and many other factors determine the best glove.
However, I have some personal preferences. People should choose the best baseball glove brand to get the best gloves. I strongly do believe the best brands always ensure the best quality.
Aside from these, pricing is a big factor. If you want the most premium one, you must spend some extra bucks on it.
Hello everyone. My name is Jason Butler, and I live in California, America. I was a professional AAA Minor League Baseball player. I lost my chance of playing MLB for injury issues, but I did not lose my love for baseball. I attended the coaching training program and am now working as a coach in a small school in San Diego.
I always love to share my experience and knowledge if that can help you. Play baseball, and stay fit.